20 February 2009

Mansfield High School has won an environmental award and a $500 grant from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to clean up Bulimba Creek.

The ‘Ripples of Change Award’ recognises the outstanding efforts of Mansfield High School in caring for their local environments and the future of their local creek.

Ms Megan Sperring from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s (GBRMPA) Reef Guardian Schools Programme said the $500 grant will help make this restoration project happen.

“This school has been working on this project for a couple of years now, and this year they will be involving a local primary school in their activities. This idea of sharing and mentoring other students shows exemplary efforts in environmental awareness. 

“As well as improving the health of the catchment, this project will help the community become more aware of the effects of pollution, weeds on creeks, and will learn how to dispose of them correctly.

The School’s Reef Guardian School Program Coordinator, Ms Marilyn Farr, said she was thrilled the school’s efforts had been recognised and would put the grant money to good use for this year’s activities.

“This award means we can get so much more done this year.

“We aim to get as much of our community involved as possible and eventually see a great improvement in Bulimba Creek and our student’s attitudes towards it.”

Dr Kirstin Dobbs, Director of Strategic Outlook for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority will present the award to Mansfield High School and personally thank the school for their efforts in helping to conserve the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.

The award will be presented at 8:40am on Friday 20 February at Mansfield State High School, Broadwater Road Mt Gravatt.